Phare de Grave

Le Verdon-sur-Mer

A squat lookout post facing the open sea, opposite the giant of Cordouan rising in the distance.

Established at the Pointe de Grave, at the southern entrance to the Gironde estuary facing the Cordouan lighthouse, this lighthouse watches over shipping between the Atlantic Ocean and the port of Bordeaux. A first temporary light was installed here as early as 1823, followed by a stone tower in 1825–1827, soon destroyed by coastal erosion. The present tower, square, in white stone capped with black, was rebuilt in 1859–1860. Electrified in 1937 and automated in 1955, the building today houses a museum devoted to the history of the Cordouan lighthouse and of French lighthouses.

Getting there : Listed as a historic monument; open to visitors, adjoining museum of lighthouses and beacons.

Opening times and access details are given as a guide only: check before you set out.

Ambient sound